The Republic of Moldova fulfills the commitments assumed at foreign level in the field of agriculture, especially through the Association Agreement with the EU, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Agriculture, Regional Development and Environment Iurie Usurelu stated in the program “Red Button” on the public TV channel Moldova 1, IPN reports.

The Secretary of State referred to the harmonization of the legal framework with the international standards, the commitments concerning financing for the agricultural sector and the training of agricultural producers. “These three issues are a permanent concern for the specialists of the Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, we also speak about the national agriculture development strategy, which is now being reviewed,” stated Iurie Usurelu.

The representative of the Party “Platform Dignity and Truth” Vasile Myrzenko said the farmers in Moldova have limited access to information. “We do not have an agricultural knowledge transfer network, which would satisfy at least 70% of the needs in this area. There is limited access to financing. A small or medium-sized farmer does not have easy access to bank loans or if they get a loan it is very hard for them to repay it,” he stated. According to Vasile Myrzenko, the access to the market is also limited for these farmers.

Expert of the Institute for Development and Social Initiative “Viitorul” Viorel Chivriga said the farmers should take part in experience exchange in countries with modern agriculture. They should be taught to sell their products not in the field, but at retail outlets and to export these so as to earn more money.

Liberal MP Ion Apostol said any reform is useful only if the agricultural producers feel an improvement in their activity.